Russian President Vladimir Putin concluded his visit to China, aiming to gain increased support from Beijing for his military operation in Ukraine while expanding crucial trade. The partnership between Russia and China has strengthened since the invasion of Ukraine, with Beijing providing critical economic support through trade, which reached $240 billion in 2023.

During his visit, Putin highlighted the importance of "trade and cultural exchange" between the two countries in the city of Harbin. This visit came as part of his two-day trip, marking his first international visit since his re-election in March. Meeting with President Xi Jinping, the leaders discussed their nations' ties as a stabilizing force in the global arena.

The two leaders engaged in an in-depth exchange of views on the Ukraine crisis. Xi reiterated China's consistent position and efforts towards promoting a political settlement for the issue. However, China has not sent weapons or ammunition to Russia, and its previous peace plan for Ukraine was met with criticism from both Ukraine and its Western allies.

Alexey Muraviev, a Russia specialist and associate professor at Curtin University, pointed out that there are limits to the relationship between Russia and China, despite their claims of limitless ties. The absence of a formal alliance agreement signifies these limitations, as neither side is willing to unconditionally support each other on issues such as Ukraine.

Xi expressed his commitment to working with Putin to achieve progress, benefit their respective nations, and contribute to global security and stability. Meanwhile, Western countries have been pressuring China to sever support for Russia's economy due to the ongoing war in Ukraine.

To further promote trade ties, Putin visited Harbin, a crucial hub for cross-border trade and cultural exchange located just a few hundred kilometers from the Russia-China border. At a Russia-China trade exposition, Putin emphasized the importance of energy ties between the two nations and pledged to strengthen them. He affirmed Russia's readiness to provide affordable and environmentally clean energy to power the Chinese economy, businesses, cities, and towns.

Addressing concerns about the Russian offensive in Ukraine's Kharkiv region, Putin stated that the objective was to create a buffer zone and not to capture the area. Russian forces have been making steady advances in the northeastern border region since a new incursion last week. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy visited the area and acknowledged the difficult situation, although noting that it was generally under control. Putin claimed that Russian troops were advancing daily according to plan.

Putin's visit to China aimed to secure Chinese support for Russia's military operation in Ukraine while deepening economic ties. As the conflict in Ukraine continues, the international community closely watches the evolving dynamics between Russia, China, and the affected parties.